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Wheelchair Accessible Taxi Services program updates

CAN Transportation Position Statement

Background:The CAN Transportation table is a collaborative of organizations and advocates from the disability community; our vision is Transportation for All Calgarians. We work together to enhance inclusive, accessible transportation for Calgarians through advocacy and collaboration.

Issue:We fear that in an effort to reduce the financial burden for Accessible Taxi Plate License (ATPL) holders, accessible transportation service options to Calgarians with disabilities may be compromised.

Position:The Alberta Human Rights Act stipulates that no person shall deny to any persons or class of persons, or discriminate against any persons or class of persons any service customarily available to the public based on physical disability or mental disability.​Able-bodied Calgarians have access to 24/7 transportation options. The CAN Transportation table envisions all Calgarians having access to 24/7 transportation options; for this reason, we view accessible taxi’s, including wheelchair accessible vehicles, as being a vitally important service in Calgary.

Recommendations:On-demand wheelchair accessible taxi service needs to be:✓ Available, on-demand 24/7✓ Available throughout the entire city of Calgary✓ Affordable

1. Ensure people who use wheelchairs have access to transportation options from midnight to 6:00am2. Base subsidy for Accessible Driver Taxi Place License (ATPL) holders on service delivery, for example:

If a “verification” of the ride is required, citizens who use wheelchairs could apply/receive a card that “authorizes” the driver to claim his/her subsidy for that trip

A subsidy which “awards” drivers makes sense only when the customer is guaranteed a shorter wait time and quality service

3. Improve wait times by:

Developing a dispatch system where all available wheelchair taxi locations are known

Sending the closest available accessible taxi

4. Improve the ACE card program by:

Providing more education on the ACE card, including clear eligibility guidelines for ACE

Review the ACE program to ensure more Calgarians have access to vital, emergency back-up transportation for CTA

5. Ask Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) to participate in wheelchair accessible service to assist with dispatch and affordability

Accessible Driver Appreciation Day 2018

Accessible Driver Appreciation Day is an initiative of the CAN Transportation table. We believe it is important to acknowledge and celebrate all those involved in delivering accessible transportation services in our city.

On November 14th, 2018 the Calgary Ability Network, in partnership with different organizations, will celebrate the drivers who provide accessible transportation services throughout our communities. ​

Click here for more information on Accessible Driver Appreciation Day!